Tote Your Baby in a Sling — Safely

Tote Your Baby in a Sling — Safely

Baby slings seem to be everywhere these days and for good reason! Wearing your baby can help him or her stay calm while giving your arms a rest. If not used correctly, however, baby wearing can put your baby at risk for serious injury. It's very important that you read all of the safety materials that come with your baby sling or carrier and become familiar with the recommendations of the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC).

The biggest risk

The biggest risk of using a sling is suffocation. Babies do not have enough neck strength to lift their own heads. An infant's chin can curl forward and touch the chest. This could cut off oxygen to the baby. The baby can also press his or her face against the fabric, blocking oxygen to the nose and mouth. If this happens, your infant could suffocate to death.

Infants who are premature, low-birth-weight twins or triplets, or ill, are at a greater risk of death with use of carriers and slings. Parents of preemies, low-birth-weight babies, twins, or ill infants should consult their child's health care provider before using any infant carrier.

Advice for safe carrying

The CPSC has this advice for parents who want to keep their hands free and their babies close:

Carry your baby so that you can see the mouth and nose at all times. Make sure that the baby's chin is not curled forward into his or her chest.

Do not place any blankets or covers over the baby's head.

Carry your baby high so that you can see his or her face.

Don't let your baby's chin touch his or her chest.

Make sure the baby's face is not pressed close against you.

Choose your activities wisely! Many people like using baby carriers and slings so that they can do other activities. So not do anything you wouldn't do with a baby in your arms. Never do activities that could put your baby at risk, such as jogging, jumping on a trampoline, participating in sports, riding a bike, driving, cooking near a hot surface, or other dangerous activities with your baby in a carrier.

Never wear your baby in a car (babies should always be in an approved car seat). And never wear your baby in a boat (babies should wear the correct personal flotation devices).

Make sure to follow the guidelines in the sling or carrier packaging. Some carriers are intended for older children who are able to hold up their heads.

Make it a habit to regularly examine your carrier before putting your baby into it.

Protect your baby from the environment. Make sure that the legs are covered and warm in cool weather. When the legs are uncovered, make sure that sunscreen is applied if you will be outside.

As your baby gets older, he or she might be interested in items that are close. Be very careful that nothing unsafe is within reach.

To learn how to use your new carrier or sling, practice with a doll or ask for help. You can also use a mirror to make sure that your baby appears safe and secure.

Disclaimer:This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.